|
My Grandmothers
Granny Fulbright & Grandma Chisham
Over the river, and through the wood,
to Grandfather's house we go;
the horse knows the way to carry the sleigh
through the white and drifted snow.
Over the river, and through the wood,
to Grandfather's house away!
We would not stop for doll or top,
for 'tis Thanksgiving Day.
Over the river, and through the wood-
oh, how the wind does blow!
It stings the toes and bites the nose,
as over the ground we go.
Over the river, and through the wood
and straight through the barnyard gate.
We seem to go extremely slow-
it is so hard to wait!
Over the river, and through the wood-
when Grandmother sees us come,
She will say, "o, dear, the children are here,
bring a pie for every one."
Over the river, and through the wood-
now Grandmothers cap I spy!
Hurrah for the fun! Is the pudding done?
Hurrah for the pumpkin pie!
~Lydia Maria Child~
It's Thanksgiving at Grandma's. Upon arrival, coats are layed on the old iron bed, then quickly I scurry
to take everything in.
Grandma with her aged hands, welcomes those who are
dear, then returns to her kitchen, stirring a pot, checking a pie, and
putting out her best pink rose dishes for this day of thanks. Her hugs
are warm, and with them comes the scent of her favorite talcum powder.
I glance at the table, dressed in it's finest
cloth, as tiny dustmotes, sliding
down the bannisters of filtered sunlight, disappear only to be replaced
by yet more. The aroma and glimpses of good things to come, tantalize the senses
of all those who enter.
Wearing one of her best aprons, with hair covered by a silken net, she fills a grape frosted pitcher with fresh
lemonade. Cheeks rosy from a warm kitchen, and a dusting of rouge, are topped
by eyes that have seen many things. Grandpa in his overalls, sits rocking in his chair,
playing "gotcha" with passing children.
The old catalpa tree outside the
window beckons me, with it's branches made for climbing, and I must answer
it's call.
The leaves that once formed a canopy, now in their autumn colors, lay
covering the ground. The warm sun has
taken the chill off the day, and Grandma's chickens cackle loudly, announcing
the delivery of fresh layed eggs.
Soon the call comes, dinner is ready, and everyone
gathers at the table, heads bowed, while the blessing is given. Steam rises
from bowls of delectable foods, as they are passed from one eager hand
to another. Clouds of mashed potatoes are topped with rivers of gravy,
and beside them a fortess of green beans from Grandma's garden. Butter runs
from between the halves of fluffy homemade rolls, and drips upon the tender
turkey. And the best is yet to come! Grandma's pies and cake!
Yesterday I was the child going to Grandma's house,
now it's me that's the Grandmother. It is as I grew older, that I really
begin to appreciate the time and work Grandma put in, getting dinner
together, and creating those memories for future generations. She must
have been so tired when she was done, but she did it anyway. Could I sit down
with her now, there's many things I'd like to talk about. And I'd also like to
thank her for giving me those Thanksgiving memories.
This year, Grandma's dishes will be lovingly placed on this Grandmother's table.
Grandpa & Grandma Chisham, standing near the old catalpa tree.
Here's wishing you all, a most blessed Thanksgiving, and one filled with
everlasting memories, and love.
Grandma Chisham's Foolproof Chocolate Cake
1 1/2 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
1 1/2 teaspoons soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
Mix well, then add:
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup milk
1 unbeaten egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
Mix until blended well, then add 1/2 cup boiling water.
Use the small baking dish, baek at 350 for 25 minutes.
 
  
|
|